Cavity Wall Inspection: Why is it Important?

A cavity wall inspection using a borescope camera can diagnose the hidden problems within your cavity walls – a common feature in modern homes. In this blog you’ll learn how a cavity wall inspection can create a healthier, more efficient home.

As a homeowner, there are many hidden aspects that can significantly impact your comfort (and wallet!). One is the condition of your cavity walls – a common feature in modern homes that can be the culprit behind your home feeling draughty in the winter and muggy in the summer. These hidden layers within your exterior walls play a crucial role in energy efficiency and structural integrity.

In the realm of energy efficiency and structural integrity, the condition of cavity walls is an often-overlooked but crucial aspect. Many modern properties feature these walls and while this design offers benefits, such as insulation and moisture control, it also presents challenges for energy efficiency if maintenance or installation is poor. Our assessors can identify potential issues through a cavity wall camera inspection, using advanced tools like borescopes. This not only ensures the longevity and stability of a property, but places a primary emphasis on enhancing energy efficiency.

In this blog, we will explore the significance of a cavity wall inspection, with a particular focus on how it contributes to improve the energy performance of a home. Additionally, we will shed light on the advanced training our assessors have undertaken to tackle this critical task.

What Are Cavity Walls?

Modern homes often feature cavity walls, which consist of two brick or block layers with a gap in between. This design offers several benefits:

• Improved Insulation: The air gap acts as a natural insulator, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
• Moisture Control: The cavity allows any moisture that penetrates the outer layer to drain away, preventing damp and mold growth.

However, if the cavity is not properly maintained or insulated, it becomes a hidden vulnerability.

Why Are Cavity Wall Inspections Important?

While cavity walls offer advantages, neglecting their condition can lead to problems:

1. Reduced Energy Efficiency: Poor insulation allows heat to escape, increasing your energy bills.
2. Structural Damage: Water infiltration, failing insulation, and debris buildup can compromise the structural integrity of your home.
3. Mould and Damp: Moisture trapped in the cavity can lead to mould growth, which can pose health risks and damage your property.

A cavity wall camera inspection, conducted by a qualified professional, can identify these issues early on, allowing you to take corrective action before they become major problems.

What Are The Benefits Of A Cavity Wall Camera Inspection?

1. Preventative Maintenance: Early detection of problems leads to timely repairs, saving you money in the long run.
2. Improved Energy Efficiency: A properly insulated cavity wall can significantly reduce your energy bills.
3. Healthier Home: Identifying and addressing moisture issues prevents mould growth, creating a healthier living environment.
4. Peace of Mind: Knowing the condition of your cavity walls provides peace of mind about the structural integrity of your home.

Understanding The Cavity Wall Inspection Process

A borescope inspection is a minimally invasive way to examine the hidden areas within your cavity wall. Here’s how it works:

1. Visual Inspection: The inspector will first visually assess the exterior walls for any signs of damage.
2. Drilling Small Holes: Tiny holes (around 8mm) are drilled into the mortar joints of the brickwork to access the cavity.
3. Borescope Examination: A borescope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera, is inserted into the holes. This allows the inspector to see inside the cavity and identify any issues like missing or damaged insulation, water damage, or debris buildup.
4. Documentation: Photos and videos are taken for your inspection report.
5. Sealing the Holes: Once the inspection is complete, the inspector seals the tiny holes with weatherproof sealant.

Investing In Expertise: Our Trained Assessors

We understand the importance of thorough cavity wall inspections to retrofit assessments. That’s why our assessors undergo specialised training to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary for a comprehensive borescope assessment.

Our training program covers:

• Cavity Wall Construction: Understanding the different types of cavity wall construction, materials used, and potential vulnerabilities.
• Advanced Borescope Techniques: Training on using advanced borescopes for precise and efficient inspections.
• Non-Intrusive Techniques: Ensuring minimal disruption to your home during the inspection process.

What’s Next?

A cavity wall inspection is a valuable investment for any homeowner. By identifying and addressing potential problems early on, you can ensure a healthier, more energy-efficient, and structurally sound home. Contact us today to schedule your cavity wall inspection with our trained assessors and invest in a healthier home.

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For additional information head to this government consumer guide on cavity wall insulation issues.